Colorectal Web
What is Colorectal Cancer?
How can I check for it?
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I get more information?

Glossary

University of Michigan Health System Comprehensive Cancer Center

The good news is that there's something you can do about colorectal cancer...

 OverviewRisk FactorsPersonal Risk Assessment

Overview

What is Colorectal Cancer and what can I do about it?


The colon is the first 6 feet of the large intestine, and the rectum is the last 8 to 10 inches.
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the colon or rectum. It develops in the digestive tract which is also called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The colon and rectum form the large intestine (or large bowel). The colon is the first 6 feet of the large intestine, and the rectum is the last 8 to 10 inches. After food is digested and nutrients are absorbed, solid waste moves into the colon. It is then passed from the body within one or two days.

Colorectal cancer, which is commonly referred to as colon cancer, usually begins with the development of small polyps. Polyps are growths of tissue inside the colon or rectum. These polyps can sometimes turn into cancer, but not always.
Colorectal Web
University of Michigan Health System
Comprehensive Cancer Center

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